Exciting News: University Launches New Division of Parks and Natural Spaces to Enhance Community Green Spaces – The Daily Illini

The University is launching a new division called the Division of Parks and Natural Spaces. This team will take charge of Allerton Park & Retreat Center and the University Arboretum. After two decades of being managed by staff from the College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences and the Illinois Prairie Hosta Society, the Arboretum is now coming under direct campus management.

The Arboretum serves as a vital space for students and local community activities. It hosts the Idea Garden, Japan House, and Pollinatarium, which contribute to learning and engagement.

Derek Peterson, the current Executive Director of Allerton Park, will lead the new division. He aims to strengthen connections between the University, the Champaign-Urbana area, and the state. “We want to inspire a new generation that appreciates and engages with nature,” Peterson shared.

Over the past decade, Peterson has organized numerous community workshops at Allerton Park, including nature hikes, birding clubs, and yoga classes. These initiatives are part of a folk school called “The Farms,” where members of the community can teach and learn from one another in an informal setting. “It’s an unaccredited way to facilitate learning,” Peterson explained.

With the new division, he plans to blend successful strategies from Allerton and the Arboretum to improve outreach. This approach aims to attract a broader and more diverse audience.

Kevin McSweeney, a professor in ACES, supports this shift, seeing it as a chance for the Arboretum to gain more visibility and resources. “This change is a very positive development for both the campus and the community,” he noted. Though McSweeney will step down as director, he is committed to assisting through the transition.

As management changes hands, Peterson will select team members from Allerton to bring their successful practices to the new division. He hopes this will lead to a greater appreciation for nature and increased public access to these facilities. “There aren’t enough spaces in Central Illinois focused on recreation, peace, and well-being,” Peterson said.

Engaging with nature can be beneficial for mental health. According to a recent survey by the National Institutes of Health, spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress and improve mood.

As the University invests in these natural spaces, it’s clear that this transition could open doors for community involvement and wellness. Peterson’s vision for uniting education with outdoor experiences promises to enrich lives in the region.

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